Residents of San Andreas and the surrounding Calaveras County area were on alert as officials from the Calaveras County Animal Services and the Sheriff's Office conducted a search-and-seizure operation in response to a recent wave of livestock attacks. According to a statement from the Calaveras County Sheriff's Office shared on social media, a pack of 3-5 dogs has been implicated in the mauling of two bulls and the death of a cow, among other livestock casualties across various local regions including Old Gulch and Fourth Crossing.
The investigation came to a head on November 25, when a warrant was served at a residence in the 6000 block of Fricot City Road. Despite encountering resistance from individuals at the scene, authorities were able to successfully carry out their duty. A man, Oscar Freer, and a woman, Susan Closs, were arrested after they allegedly impeded the officers' entry and threatened one of the officers. During the raid, the officers also found several firearms in the home, as stated by the Sheriff's Office.
The seized dogs have been safely transported to the Animal Shelter, with the Sheriff's Office emphasizing responsible animal ownership and containment. Calaveras County underscores that while landowners have the right to defend their livestock from threats, such actions must be deemed reasonable and necessary under current California laws. The Sheriff's Office expressed its thanks to the Animal Services Division for their quick response, aiding in the protection of local livestock and ensuring the safety of the public.
Charges brought against Closs and Freer include obstruction, threatening a public officer, and weapons-related charges, with both suspects currently housed in the Calaveras County Jail. While the investigation remains active, further details have yet to be disclosed. Meanwhile, the community is reminded of the consequences of animal negligence, potentially leading to both civil and criminal liabilities, as mentioned by the Sheriff's Office in their statement.
